JPH04268191A - Tower packing with louver - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To maximize mass transfer efficiency and achieve the minimum manufacturing cost cheaper than that of conventional opposed corrugated assembly, by providing selectively oriented arrangement of corrugated sheet louvers to expose steam and fluid flows to the opposite side, and at the same time provide fluid and steam flows in the opposite direction to interact therewith. CONSTITUTION: A plate 12 includes corrugated ridges 17 to define a channel therebetween. The plate 12 includes plurals louvers 13 and 14 to define openings for vectoring a series of flows therethrough. A larger louver 13 is formed in a preliminary set pattern with respect to a smaller louver 14.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention]

0001

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to structured packing for vapor-liquid processing columns, and more particularly to structured packing for use in such processing columns, made from corrugated louvered contact plates disposed in face-to-face contact. regarding packing.

0002

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In vapor-liquid contact technology, it is highly desirable to utilize methods and apparatus that effectively improve the amount of mass and/or heat transfer occurring within a process column. Such process column technology is met with a variety of packing designs used in column packing. The type of packing used is a function of the particular process to be carried out within the column. The packing elements can therefore consist of a structured array arranged to form a regular array in a column (structured packing) or loaded into a column,
It can also consist of randomly arranged relatively small shapes (input packings), for example rings or saddles. The fine fractionation and/or separation of the constituents of the feedstock introduced into the column and the removal of harmful or undesirable residual elements lend criticality to the particular vapor-liquid contacting equipment selected for a given application. The shape or structured packing element of the charge determines the flow pattern and density of the array and the resulting resistance to flow created thereby. Accordingly, it has been found that prior art structured packing arrangements are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and material configurations.

It has been found particularly desirable in the prior art to provide apparatus and methods that provide efficient heat transfer, fluid evaporation, or vapor condensation, whereby the cooling of one of the fluids is achieved by This can be achieved with minimal pressure drop across the area. High efficiency, low pressure drop and reduced temperature are important design criteria in chemical engineering, such as petroleum fractionation operations. Process columns for such operations are of a general character providing a descending fluid flow from the upper portion of the column and an ascending vapor flow from the lower portion of the column. Sufficient surface area of vapor-liquid contact is necessary for primary function and mitigation or elimination of liquid entrainment present in the rising vapor. It is most frequently necessary for the structured packing arrangement to have sufficient surface area both in its horizontal and vertical planes, so that the parts of the heavier components are guided downwards in a condensing shape and the vapors are guided downwards in a condensing configuration Can be lifted through the packing. In such devices, the heavier or lighter components of the feed are recovered at each of the bottom and top of the column by interaction of rising vapor and descending liquid, mostly in the face of the structured packing.

[0004] A plurality of stacked layers providing a conforming complementary design configuration generally resembles a single process column. Each layer utilizes the velocity and kinetic energy of the rising vapor and serves the dual function of eliminating liquid entrainment of the rising vapor and thorough, turbulent contact of the vapor with the descending liquid to the desired configuration. Achieve sufficient separation or condensation of fluids. Rapid cooling of the rising steam is generally a prerequisite for efficient operation, providing efficient heat transfer due to steam condensation and minimal pressure drop in the minimum vertical depth of the packing. Therefore,
Oppositely sloped corrugated sheets or plates are utilized in the prior art to provide multiple steam passages through the horizontal and vertical surfaces of the packing layer, ensuring the flow of steam and its distribution within the sheet, and Prevent misdistribution or channeling of vapor through some parts of the system (and not through others). Only in this manner is there an effective and efficient use of the energy applied to the column and its interior.

Among the variations in the prior art, sloped corrugated contact plate configurations often incorporate steam passage holes. Vapor turbulence is created by such holes, ensuring intimate vapor-liquid contact. It is also necessary to ensure that the rising vapor performs the dual function of liquid contact and liquid-free entrainment in close proximity to the vertical position where the rising vapor approaches or leaves the vapor passage hole. In this manner, misdistribution of ascending vapor or descending liquid is alleviated. Moreover, the most important concern of the prior art is to provide such methods and apparatus for vapor-liquid contact in an economical manufacturing configuration. Such considerations are necessary for cost efficient operation.

Oppositely tilted corrugated plates provide only one method and apparatus for countercurrent, liquid-vapor interaction. In such a packing arrangement, liquid introduced at or near the top of the column and withdrawn at the bottom is effectively engaged by vapor introduced at or near the bottom of the column and withdrawn at the top. . A critical feature of such methods and apparatus is ensuring that the liquid and vapor achieve the desired degree of contact with each other so that the planned mass or energy transfer occurs at the designed rate. The internal structure is of course passive in the sense that it is not externally powered and has few, if any, moving parts.

The prior art is replete with passive vapor-liquid contact devices that utilize cross-grooved and perforated sheet materials that engage face-to-face. This configuration encourages liquid to move through the packing and collect to form itself into a thin film with a large area through which vapor can pass. However, the design problem is not simply one of providing large surface area or multiple corrugations, intersecting longitudinal grooves or perforations. A number of other interrelated design considerations must be considered, some of which are mentioned above.

[0008] From a process point of view, it is important that the desired vapor-liquid contact interaction must be carried out as closely as possible to perfection. For example, in a crude oil vacuum column,
Efficient condensation and good separation require producing an oil stream free of undesirable residual elements. As mentioned above,
The contact column and its internal equipment must efficiently utilize the heat supplied to the unit. In this manner, direct operating costs are minimized whether the objective is mass conversion, heat transfer, liquid evaporation or vapor condensation requirements. Regarding the above, pressure drop is a major consideration, as is the vapor-liquid fluid interface. Structured packing of vapor-liquid contacts is well known in the prior art, for example in US Pat.
No. 343,821, U.S. Pat. No. 4,139,584, issued February 13, 1979, U.S. Pat.
U.S. Patent No. 378, granted January 15, 1974.
No. 5,620 and US Pat. No. 3,959,419, issued May 25, 1976.

In the above vapor-liquid contact method and apparatus patents, several designs are provided to provide intimate vapor-liquid contact. In particular, face-to-face contact stacked corrugated contact plates having corrugations in which one of the horizontal and/or orthogonal corrugations is oblique with respect to the other corrugations are shown and provided in a variety of material configurations. These forms include single filament yarns and solid plates. Furthermore, it is well known in the prior art to utilize plates provided with longitudinal grooves having a plurality of perforations between them. One such example is found in U.S. Pat. Can be seen. On the other hand, although many prior art methods and devices for vapor-liquid contact have shown relative efficiency, certain drawbacks remain. In particular, a steam-combining descending liquid stream and an ascending vapor stream with the structured packing variety defined above.
Liquid contact columns generally cannot easily control internal pressure deviations. Downward facing surfaces also present problems as such surfaces generally do not wet efficiently. Even with respect to the slits or incisions in the packing, there are many downward facing surfaces and few prior art designs effectively address proper wetting or passage therethrough. This is true even for holes arranged in a plate with corrugations and/or intersecting longitudinal grooves in face-to-face contact, such as those mentioned above. Vapor flow is ultimately sensitive to pressure deviations and is easily diverted between multiple exposed areas of matching corrugations or flutes.

It is desirable in countercurrent flow that both liquid and vapor mix efficiently and non-uniformly along the wet packing surface. For this to occur, it proves to be very advantageous for both liquid and vapor to be able to pass through the corrugated sheet for efficient interaction. Without free passage of both vapor and liquid through the sandwich-shaped corrugated sheet, regions of either high or low volume flow can occur. As a result, these flow volume deviations result in a lack of uniformity and homogeneity within the packing. The most efficient structured packing configurations coalesce into regions where the vapor and liquid ratios remain relatively constant with consistent interaction and mixing. This also facilitates uniform flow of both liquid and vapor through both sides of the corrugated sheet in a manner that promotes uniform wetting and spreading of liquid between the sheets and equalization of pressure. Request packing surface.

[0011]

There is therefore an advantage in overcoming the problems of the prior art by utilizing the flow directing and collecting features of louvers made in corrugated plates. The apparatus of the present invention provides such an improvement over prior art packings by providing a corrugated plate with a selected louver configuration therein. In this embodiment, liquid flows through the sides of the corrugations facing the plates of the passageway substantially increasing the vapor-liquid contact of the ascending vapor and descending liquid that normally pass between said corrugated plates. The presence of a selectively oriented array of louvers in the corrugated sheet allows vapor and liquid streams to be exposed on opposite sides thereof while flowing in opposite directions interacting with it. Such a liquid vapor flow configuration maximizes mass transfer efficiency and is provided with minimal manufacturing cost increase over that of conventional opposed plate corrugation assemblies.

0012

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a vapor-liquid contact column and structured packing arrangement disposed therein to provide vapor-liquid contact. More particularly, one feature of the invention includes an improved tower packing of the type consisting of a plurality of corrugated plates that are angled oppositely from one side to the other and in face-to-face contact with opposing corrugations. This packing is adapted to receive an ascending vapor flow and a concomitant descending liquid flow. This flow pattern increases vapor-liquid contact. The improvement comprises an array of louvers formed in a common flat area of the corrugated sheet, the louvers being oriented to pass vapor and liquid flow through the flat area of the sheet.

In another aspect, the invention includes a column packing that contacts a vapor stream with a liquid stream and includes vertically oriented corrugated sheets in face-to-face contact. Each of the sheets has fold lines defining ridges and troughs within it separated by flat areas. The ridges, valleys and flat areas define the corrugated form of the sheet. The flat region includes a plurality of laterally extending louvers, with substantially all of the louvers terminating adjacent to, but shorter than, the fold line. The louver has several upwardly facing edges and several downwardly facing edges. Some louvers project transversely outwardly from each plane of the planar region, and some louvers project laterally inwardly from each plane of the planar region. In some embodiments of the invention, some of the louvers are substantially smaller than others, and the smaller louvers are spaced apart in a selected arrangement therebetween. In another embodiment of the invention, all louvers have a single dimension.

In yet another aspect, the invention as described above further provides that at least some of the apertures through the corrugated sheet have louvers projecting outwardly on one side thereof and projecting inwardly on the opposite side thereof. Includes tower packing defined by louvers. At least some of the louvers may be arranged in laterally aligned pairs, and the louvers of the laterally aligned pairs are oriented in the same vertical direction and extend in the same transverse direction from each plane of the planar region. You can have each edge of them.

In another aspect, the invention includes an improved method for mixing liquids and vapors in a process column of the type described above, wherein the structured packing is arranged in corrugated plates disposed in face-to-face relationship. provided. The improvement comprises providing a corrugated plate with a plurality of louvered openings arranged in generally parallel spaced relation from one side to the other, and forming a first set of louvered openings in the corrugated plate. The large louvered apertures are arranged in parallel spaced relation across the flat region of the corrugated plate, and an array of small louvered apertures is formed between the large louvered apertures. Adjacent ones of the larger louvered openings are formed in opposite directions, and the smaller louvered openings are disposed adjacent thereto. The liquid and vapor are then discharged into countercurrent corrugated plates, which pass through some of the louvers to increase mixing therebetween.

[0016]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring first to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of a vapor-fluid contact plate constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention for use in a process column described below. plate 1
2 is made of stainless steel or the like and consists of a relatively thin corrugated sheet having a series of large and small louvers formed therethrough. Thin corrugated sheets of this general type are conventionally used in vapor-liquid contact plates. Large louvers 13 are spaced between successive small louvers 14. Each louver 13, 14 is formed in a generally flat surface, i.e., in a corrugated planar sidewall 11, which louver extends through the troughs or ridges of the corrugation, as will be explained below.
Extends to these. Vapor and liquid are then induced to flow through the plate 12 in opposite directions along such louvered areas, providing mass and heat transfer as will be discussed in more detail below. The manner in which vapor and liquid are directed between each plate 12 directly affects the efficiency of column operation and is the subject of the present invention.

Still referring to FIG. 1, plate 12 comprises a crimped or corrugated member having a plurality of channels 16 extending between and across adjacent side walls 11. Defined within each disposed corrugated ridge 17 . Each corrugated ridge 17 defines a trough on its opposite side, which "trough" is also referred to by the reference numeral 17. The corrugated plates 12 are adapted to be positioned in face-to-face relationship, with the louvers 13, 14 inducing passage of liquid and vapor through the plates 12. The flow of liquid and vapor through plate 12 minimizes misdistribution of fluid components within the structured packing of the column under various operating conditions described below.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a perspective view of a partial assembly of the structured packing of plate 12 is shown. As illustrated herein, structured packing assembly 10 comprises only a portion of the structured packing layers used in the process tower. A large number of plates can normally be used to define a single layer, and any part of them can be
It seems to be similar to that shown in . In the assembled configuration, the plates 12 are arranged in face-to-face relationship, with their corrugation angles arranged in opposite directions. A plurality of distinct channels 16 are formed within packing 10 as defined by abutting plates 12 . Each channel 16 defined between the corrugated ridges 17 of each plate 12 is best shown in the top view of FIG.

Still referring to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the liquid descending through the packing assembly 10 engages the vapor ascending through the packing, resulting in an interaction therebetween. each plate 1
The liquid descending along 2 spreads optimally over both sides of the corrugated channel 16 and also passes through its louvered surface. Steam rising between the plates 12 can likewise pass along and through each plate by means of louvers 13, 14 within it. The orientation of the louvers 13, 14 will affect the amount and flow pattern of vapor deflected therethrough, as will be discussed in more detail below.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a top view of FIG. 2 is shown, with plates 12 assembled in face-to-face relationship. In this abutting engagement, a notional plane 19 is defined between the abutting ridges 17 of adjacent plates 12. In this manner, the ridges 17 of adjacent plates 12 touch each other along a notional plane 19, which plane 19 is represented in this figure by phantom lines. In some prior art structured packings, the lamina separates adjacent corrugated plates 12 by being arranged in a notional plane 19 . This physical separation across the notional plane provides defined fluid flow as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,597,916, which is assigned to the assignee of the present invention and is incorporated herein by reference. . In this construction, the lamina is not provided along the notional plane separating the plates 12 from one to the other. Such plates are not believed to be necessary due to the enhanced vapor and liquid flow along and through the plates 12 provided by the louver configuration described herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3 in combination, liquid 20 descending through packing 10 flows over and between adjacent plates 12 as vapor 22 ascends therethrough. The louvers in surface 11 will direct the flow of both vapor and liquid through plate 12 for uniform interaction therebetween. As shown most clearly in FIG. 3, rising steam 22 will rise upwardly through channels 16 defined between plates 12. Concomitantly, liquid 20 generally descends along the sides of the plate while engaging rising vapor 22 rising within it. The presence of the louvers 13, 14 prevents the descending liquid 20 by forcing one of the components into direct contact with the other and by forcing the component to pass through each plate 12 in which the louvers 13, 14 are formed. and rising steam 22. Referring now to FIG. 4, a fragmentary, enlarged perspective view of a section of plate 12 of FIG. 1 is shown. Plate 12 includes corrugated ridges 17;
A flow path 16 (shown most clearly in FIG. 2) is defined therebetween. Further, the plate 12 includes a plurality of louvers 13,
14 and defining a series of directional flow apertures therethrough. The larger louvers 13 are formed in a preset pattern relative to the smaller louvers 14. The direction of each louver is made up of a number of parameters, the description of which requires a series of conditions along with it for the description. The following conditions are utilized herein to describe the louver configuration as shown in FIG. 4 and the following figures. Each flat area 11
has a corrugation width "W" equal to the distance between adjacent fold lines, ie, ridges of the corrugations. For reference purposes, the length "L" taken at right angles from "W" along a flat region equal to the corrugation width "W" is the unit area (L x W ) is used to define the For example, a corrugation width W of 0.75 inches (1.905 cm) and a length L below the corrugation flat area of 0.75 inches (1.905 cm) define a "square corrugation unit." In this example, the square corrugated unit area is 0.5625 square inches (3.629 cm2). Reference to "square wave unit" is used herein to define the number of louvers in terms of density.

Additional conditions used herein can be based on the bottom and top of plate 12 in FIG. Top edge 30 may be considered the uppermost reference surface, and the direction of arrow 32 may be considered downwardly therefrom. The arrow 34 is as follows:
represents the direction through the plate 12, referred to as "inward" or "inward", while arrow 36 represents the direction through the plate;
Representing its "outward" direction, the number 37 therefore represents the "outward" surface. Each louver has a “counterpart” placed opposite it.
Formed adjacent to the louvers, which also extend from opposite sides of the plate 12, define an enlarged aperture or spacing therebetween through the plate 12. Each louver is also formed with "juxtaposed" louvers adjacent thereto and extending from a common surface area of plate 12. Each juxtaposed pair of louvers includes oppositely oriented louvers, which may project from the same or opposite sides of the plate 12 as described in FIG.

[0023]Using the above parameters, further
, the top louver 40 of the face 37 of the flat plate section 42 faces upwardly and outwardly. A large louver 44 disposed below faces outward and downward. Between the large louvers 40, 44, a series of smaller louvers 14 are formed in pairs. Below the large louver 44 is another large louver 46 facing upwardly and inwardly, forming a large opening through the plate 12 as indicated by arrow 47. The inward direction of the louvers 46 is not clearly shown in this particular view, but is shown in FIG. Below the louvers 46 is a larger louver 48 that faces downwardly and inwardly. Below and adjacent the louvers 48, large louvers 50 face outwardly and upwardly. The smaller louver pattern is described in connection with FIG. 7 below.

The construction of the large louvers 13 of the plate 12 provides a number of advantages to fluid flow therealong. Liquid 20 descending downwardly over plate 12 engages upwardly facing large louvers 24 and is deflected through plate 12 . Then, if the liquid does not travel through the plate 12 via the smaller louvers 14 disposed below it, it will eventually engage the larger louvers 46 for engagement therewith and the liquid will flow downwards. , and cause it to pass through it. This flow is illustrated very schematically in FIG. Numerous flow configurations and patterns exist along plate 12 depending on fluid flow characteristics and column operating conditions.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the rising steam 22 passes through a downwardly extending louver, such as a louver 44, through which a portion of the rising steam flow is captured and redirected.
It can be seen that it likewise engages itself continuously. The upward vapor flow passing upwardly through the louvers 44 increases the vapor-liquid contact between the upper louvers 4.
will directly engage the descending fluid flow captured by the zero. Not only the liquid that is forced directly into the vapor, but also the vapor can escape through the plate 12 for proper pressure and flow equalization.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a process column 60 is schematically illustrated stacked with layers of structured packing 10 made in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Process column 60 includes a lower steam supply line 62 and an upper liquid supply line 64. Liquid and vapor exhaust lines are shown. The liquid 20 is distributed downwardly across the distributor 66 as a passage through a structured packing arranged below it. Tower 60 further includes a central axis 61 shown in phantom. It can be seen that the corrugated ridge 17 forms an angle 63 with the tower axis 61. Angle 63 is an acute angle that forms ridge 17. The louvers 14 of this particular embodiment are formed at right angles to the column axis 61 and form an acute angle 65 with the corrugated ridges 17. According to this embodiment of the invention, the sum of angles 63, 65 is approximately 90°.

Still referring to FIG. 5, a lower level of structured packing 68 is disposed directly above steam supply line 62. Above layer 68 is a second layer of packing 70 that is rotated relative to layer 68. Angular rotation is typical in the installation of structured packing beds in process columns;
It can range from 5° to 90°, and various angles can be used. Therefore, layer 72 is layer 70
, and the layer 74 is rotated relative to it. Top layer 76 is disposed below top layer 78 , which is disposed below liquid discharge distributor 66 . Liquid 20 is shown draining from distributor 66 and collects in a lower sump 80 at the bottom of column 60 where it is drained through drain tube 82. In this schematic illustration of a typical structured column packing, it can be seen that the liquid flows in direct countercurrent to the vapor for interaction and mass transfer therewith.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a top plan view of the structured packing layer 74 of FIG. 5 taken along line 6--6 of FIG. 5 is shown. This packing layer 74 is schematically shown to be comprised of a series of corrugated plates 12 arranged in generally parallel spaced relationship in the manner described above. It can be seen that the arrangement of plates 12 forms a complex area between channels 16. Uniform counterflow of internal liquid and vapor can prevent many problems from occurring, and the present invention addresses such considerations.

Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown an enlarged side elevational cross-sectional view of a section of plate 12 of FIG. 4 illustrating the louver configuration of FIG. The series of large louvers are numbered consecutively, roughly corresponding to the previous numbering in FIG. The louvers 13 and 14 are located inside the plate surface 204 and on the plate surface 2.
It is seen extending from the outside of 08 and a directional relationship is taken from it. Therefore, the louver 140 is similar to the louver 4 described above.
0, while louver 144 is the counterpart of louver 44 described above. Louver 140,1
44, 146 are also shown in FIG. 4 and described herein. Louver 140 is oriented upwardly and outwardly to receive the flow of liquid 20 therein. The flow of liquid 20 is shown in the direction of arrow 106 and the flow is shown in the direction of arrow 32
The direction is Immediately below the large louver 140 is a smaller louver 90 facing downwardly and outwardly and an adjacent smaller louver 92 facing upwardly and inwardly. Hole 93, defined as an opening between oppositely oriented louvers 90, 92 (inwardly facing and outwardly facing), allows any one small louver 14 to will form a larger spacing than it could form on its own. Therefore, the louver 92
faces upwardly to define a hole 93 which engages the descending liquid flow 106 and directs said liquid flow outwardly therethrough in the direction of arrow 95. The upwardly deflected louvers, both large and small, engage the downward flow of liquid 20 therethrough and are directly deflected, forcing it through the plate 12.

Still referring to FIG. 7, disposed below the louvers 92 are small "juxtaposed" louvers 94 extending from a common surface area with the louvers 92;
Angled downward and outward. Below the louvers 94 are "counter" louvers 96, which consist of louvers facing inwardly and upwardly and "juxtaposed" to the louvers 96 to form an enlarged opening therebetween. A louver 100 is formed facing upwardly and outwardly and adjacent a lower louver 102 that faces downwardly and inwardly. Consequently, the louvers 104 face outwardly and upwardly and are disposed directly above the larger louvers 144. Louver 100
Any liquid that passes down the outer surface of the louver 10
4 can be engaged by and deflected through. Liquid that is not deflected through the louvers 104 will pass downwardly across the upper outer surface 105 of the louvers 144. Rising steam 22 is similarly indicated by arrow 1
Large louvers 144,1 as shown by 07
You will find a passage between 46. This flow of vapor is not only through the plate 12, but also in tight countercurrent to and against the liquid flowing downwards along both sides thereof. Such tight flow communication further enhances mass transfer therebetween.

Referring now to the combination of FIGS. 4 and 7, the present invention, in one embodiment, provides a series of large and small louvers that provide advantageous flow characterized by the interaction of countercurrent vapor and liquid flows. The small louvers 14 allow for a unidirectional thin sheet of liquid to be directed through it, while allowing intermittent flow of both liquid and vapor beyond it. The larger louvers 13 are able to deflect very large amounts of liquid and vapor through them and to release large amounts of both accumulations for equalization of the flow on opposite sides of the plate 12.

Referring now to FIG. 8, there is shown the same view of the plate section of FIG. 7 illustrating in more detail one pattern of vapor and liquid passage therethrough. Each of the various louvers is not separately numbered in this figure to facilitate description of the fluid flow pattern therein. Accordingly, the descending liquid 20 is shown to form split streams 201, 202 as it encounters the first large louver 140 projecting from the side 208. flow 20
2 is directed downwardly and inwardly by the louvers 140, passing it to the inner surface 204 of the plate 12. Along inner surface 204 liquid 202 may continue downward in the direction of flow arrow 206 . In this pattern, flow can continue downward or through the small louvers 90 to the outer surface 208 of the plate 12 as directed by the flow arrows 210. The volume of fluid 206 directed through a small louver, such as louver 90, depends on a number of parameters, including liquid, flow rate, louver size, and morphology of the ascending vapor flow 22. It can be seen that the size of the opening in the small louver 90 is relatively small and the maximum amount of liquid that can pass therethrough is substantially less than that provided by the large opening in the louver 140. Once,
Once the maximum flow rate is achieved, additional liquid simply flows over the louver.

Still referring to FIG. 8, liquid stream 206 can continue downwardly along interior surface 204 and exit through louvers 94, as does the labeled stream 212. A wide variety of flow configurations are of course possible and are presented for illustration purposes only. Fluid stream flow 201, 210
, 212 can likewise continue downward along the outer surface in the direction of arrow 214 or portions thereof can be continued downwardly along the outer surface in the direction of arrow 214
can be directed back through the plate 12 as shown by the louvers 98 as shown here.
Appears below. In that configuration, flow 216 then flows downwardly along plate surface 204. At this point, the liquid that started as liquid stream 20 may have passed through the plate three times as much and is exposed to the rising vapor stream 22 on both sides of plate 12. Similarly, some liquid may not be able to pass through the louvers 98 and may continue as liquid flow 218 through the lower louvers 104 shown here. The design of the louvers through which the flow clearly passes depends on the observer's reference point. The liquid stream 218 actually passes between the louvers 102, 104 since the spacing between them is formed as a result of the combination of said louvers. References to flow through one louver should be seen as references to flow through that louver and the adjacent louvers forming the flow holes therebetween.

Still referring to FIG. 8, descending liquid stream 20 encounters vapor stream 22 ascending along plate 12. The upward steam flow is determined by the large louver 1 described here.
40,144 through plate 12 most easily. The larger louvers have dimensions that provide sufficient surface area to engage and direct steam flow through the plate 12, the dimensions being substantially larger than the hole area of the smaller louvers, such as louvers 90. In this embodiment, there should not be a large amount of steam 22 passing through the large louvers 144. If there is a large amount of steam, the louver 144
This will impede and/or restrict the upward flow of steam through. Thus, arrow 221 indicates the path of steam 22 through plate 12, as arrow 222 indicates the path of steam along plate 12 around louvers 144. Arrows 221 are shown with oppositely disposed arrows 223 indicating counterflow of liquid along the inner surface 204 of the plate 12, which liquid is deflected outwardly and downwardly through the large louvers 146. It can be seen that more liquid is conveyed through the larger louvers 146 than the smaller louvers 96. For this reason, the directions of the louvers are formed complementary to each other and to the component flow through them. For example, as seen in the combination of FIGS. 4 and 8, large louvers 140 engage and displace a substantial amount of liquid 20 passing downwardly along plate 12. if,
Unless the liquid flow is very large, only a small portion of the liquid will be diverted over the louvers 140 in the direction of arrow 201. For this reason, the lower louvers 90, 94
are outwardly and downwardly deflected louvers that provide exposed louvered surfaces of upwardly and inwardly deflected louvers 92, 96 to liquid flow 202 on side 204. This pattern is provided in comparison to the hypothetical louver configuration of a set of inwardly/outwardly deflected louvers that can be disposed directly below the large louver 140. Such a hypothetical louver form would not complement the large louver form with special components therethrough. Similarly, large louvers 1 deflected downward and outward.
44 is an upper louver 104 deflected upwardly and outwardly;
, 100. Steam deflected through plate 12 is deflected by louvers 144 such that louvers 100, 104 are directed to engage the steam flow on outer surface 208 and instead follow flow arrows 2 in FIG.
16, 218 for collecting fluid flow therethrough. This complementary louver orientation between the large and small louvers maximizes the efficiency of the countervapor liquid flow and the interaction therebetween. Consistent therewith, in this embodiment, each large louver 13 can be made opposite an adjacent smaller louver 14 to maximize fluid flow through the plate 12. In some embodiments, a downwardly and outwardly deflected louver is disposed below a smaller upwardly and outwardly deflected louver. Of course, there may be exceptions near the edges of plate 12.

Referring back to FIG. 4, the louvers 13,
14 are made with a predefined density and pattern. Of course, the density and pattern can be varied depending on the particular application. In this embodiment, pattern 300 is a series of large louvers 14 between which are disposed small louvers.
Incorporate 0. 17 patterns per square waveform unit
louvers (16 small louvers and 1 large louver). specific pattern 3
00 includes 16 smaller louvers 302 (8 outwardly projecting louvers and 8 inwardly projecting louvers) between large louvers 140,144. Small louver 302 also has substantially smaller dimensions relative to large louver 140. small louver 302
includes upper louvers 303, 304 formed just below large louver 140 in this view. Louvers 303, 304 are deflected downward and outward. Louvers 306, 307 are each formed below each of louvers 303, 304, and are similarly formed downwardly and outwardly. An intermediate surface region 308 is formed below the louvers 306, 307, and has a surface region approximately the width of the larger louver 140 and the smaller louvers 303, 304, 306.
and has twice the width of 307. small louver 303
, 304 are constructed to provide a combined width substantially equal to the width of the larger louvers adjacent thereto. The actual width of the small louvers can vary, but only in this embodiment, for example, each of the small louvers 14 has a width of the order of 45% of the width of the flat area 11, and the height of the small louvers 14 is large. 20% of the height of louver 13
This is the extent of The laterally aligned pairs of small louvers are shorter than the fold line 17 but terminate adjacent to it. Smaller, segmented structures are preferred for structural purposes in view of the reduced surface of the louvers extending therefrom. It can be seen that the surface areas of the louvers themselves provide a degree of structural rigidity adjacent to the holes formed between the louvers.

Still referring to FIG. 4, louvers 310
, 311 are formed just below the surface area 308, and their louvers 310, 311 are deflected upwardly and outwardly. Louvers 313 and 314 are arranged below louvers 310 and 311, respectively, and are similarly formed outward and upward. This structural aspect can also be seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. Each large and small louver extends laterally within the flat region between the ridges and valleys of each corrugated plate 12, with substantially all louvers adjacent to the fold line but terminating short. This lateral dimensional feature of each louver is clearly shown in FIG. The terms upwardly and downwardly deflected louvers are used here, but other scientific names can be used. For example, a louver can be said to have an upwardly and downwardly facing surface or edge. The louvers may also include a number projecting transversely outwardly from each plane of the flat region of plate 12 and a number projecting transversely inwardly from each plane of the flat region of the plate. The openings between the louvers may also be defined by outwardly projecting louvers on one side and inwardly projecting louvers on the other side of the plate 12.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a fragmentary, enlarged perspective view of a section of another embodiment of the plate 12 of FIG. 1 is shown. Plate 412 includes corrugated ridges 417 that define flow passages 416 . Plate 412 further includes a plurality of louvers 41 defining a series of directional flow openings therethrough.
Contains 4. The louvers 414 are formed in this particular embodiment with a single dimension and preset pattern.

As shown in FIG. 4, the top edge 430 is considered the uppermost reference plane and the direction of arrow 432 is "downward" from it.
will be considered. Arrow 434 represents the direction through plate 412, hereinafter referred to as "inward" and hence number 43.
5 designs the "inner" surface. Arrow 436 is the "outside"
represents the direction through the plate, therefore the number 437 is ``
Represents the outer side. Each louver is placed facing each other.
A mating louver is formed adjacent to the mating louver, which also extends from the opposite side of plate 412 and between which plate 412
Defining an enlarged opening or space through. Each louver is also formed with a "juxtaposed" louver adjacent thereto and extending from a common surface area of plate 412. Each juxtaposed louver pair consists of oppositely oriented louvers;
These can protrude from the same side or from opposite sides of plate 412 as described in FIG.

Using the parameters described above, and with further reference to FIG. 9, surface 437 of flat plate area 442
The top louver 440 of faces downwardly and outwardly. A louver 444 is disposed below and also extends from the surface 437.
faces downward and outward. Below the louvers 440, 444, a series of louvers are formed in the surface 437, with the louvers facing upwardly and outwardly. Louvers 446 extending from surface 437 face inwardly and outwardly, and extend from plate 41
2 through which an opening 447 is formed. As discussed above and most clearly shown below in FIG.
A fabrication of two opposingly disposed mating louvers extending from opposing surfaces of. Aperture 447 is defined by louvers 446 extending upwardly and outwardly from side surface 437 as well as adjacent louvers (not shown) formed along inner surface 435 of plate 412 extending downwardly and inwardly therefrom. It is also formed from. The dimensions of aperture 447 are thus the fabrication of a pair of mating louvers formed on opposite sides of the plate. Although reference may be made to a single louver on one side of plate 412, the associated louver hole is also a result of a mating louver formed on the opposite side of said plate. For example, louver 44
4 is said to be disposed below the louvers 440, that description describes the plane 437 of the flat plate area 442, and that at least one upwardly and inwardly deflected louver is located on the opposite side. 1.
It should be understood that the louvers 440, 444 are disposed as shown in more detail in FIG.

The construction of louvers 414 within plate 412 (see FIG. 3) provides a number of advantages to fluid flow therealong. Liquid 420 descending down plate 412 engages upwardly facing louvers 414 causing a deflection of the liquid through the plate. This deflection can be either inward or outward, as seen in FIG. 9, depending on the plane on which the louver stands. If the liquid does not move through the plate 412 via a special louver, it can find its way through said plate by a second or third louver having the same direction and arranged above or below. can. The louver pattern of this embodiment of the invention includes at least two adjacent louvers on one side of plate 412 having the same orientation, and the adjacent louvers disposed have opposing orientations. The actual pattern is detailed below.

Still referring to FIG. 9, rising steam 422
will also find itself engaged by a downwardly extending louver, such as louver 448, which captures and redirects a portion of the steam flow rising therethrough. The ascending vapor flow passing upwardly through the louvers 448 directly engages the descending liquid flow captured by the upper louvers 449 disposed immediately above it, increasing vapor-liquid contact therebetween. Steam as well as liquid to be forced into direct engagement with the steam can be discharged through plate 412 for proper pressure and flow equalization.

Referring now to FIG. 10, there is shown an enlarged side elevation cross-sectional view of a section of plate 412 of FIG. 9 illustrating the louver configuration of FIG. The louvers are numbered sequentially corresponding generally to the previous numbering of the louvers in FIG. 9 and their position along area 442. The louvers are seen extending from the inner plate surface 604 and outer plate surface 608 from which directional reference is taken. Therefore, louver 5
40 is seen as a counterpart of louver 440, and surface 60
8 and extends downwardly and outwardly. Louvers 540, 54
4,546 is shown in FIG. 9 for reference purposes.

Still referring to FIG. 10, liquid stream 420
is shown in the direction of arrow 506 and its flow is shown in the direction of arrow 432
below and outwardly of the louvers 540 in the general direction of. Immediately below the louvers 540 on the face 604 is a "mate" louver 490 that faces upwardly and inwardly. Opposedly oriented mating louvers 490, 54
Any single small louver 414 forms by itself against the plate 412 a hole 493 defined as an opening between 0 (one inward facing and one outward facing). Form a larger aperture than is possible. Accordingly, louver 490 faces upwardly to define a hole 493 in relation to louver 540 that engages descending liquid flow 506 and directs said liquid flow outwardly therethrough in the direction of arrow 495. . The upwardly deflecting louvers engage and directly deflect the downward flow of liquid 420 therethrough, forcing the liquid to pass through plate 412.

Still referring to FIG. 10, the louvers 49
Below the 0 is a louver "juxtaposed" which angles downward and outward. Below the louver 544 is a mating louver 496, which faces inwardly and upwardly. A louver 498 juxtaposed below louver 496 and formed from a common inwardly opening V-shaped louver section 510 faces downwardly and inwardly. The louvers 546 face upwardly and outwardly and are juxtaposed with the lower louvers 502, which face downwardly and inwardly. Louver 5
04 forms the counterpart to the louver 502 and faces outward and upward. The louvers 504, 505 are formed from a common outwardly opening V-shaped louver section 511. It can be seen that any liquid passing down the outer surface of the louvers 546 can be engaged by and deflected through the upper openings of the louvers 504. Louver 5
The liquid not deflected through 04 extends outwardly and the upper outer surface 60 of the next group of downwardly directed louvers 414
8 and pass downward. The louver group 507 formed from the mating louvers 414 extending from opposite sides 604, 608 of the plate 412 is simply the juxtaposed louver 5 described above.
It can be seen that the upper louver group 509 incorporated in 46,502 is larger. Each louver group 507 has 4
Incorporates 533 juxtaposed louvers, these are louvers 533
, 534, 535, 536 for reference purposes. Between each group of louvers 507, 509,
Either a generally V-shaped louvered area 510 or 511 is provided. This V-shaped louver area 510,5
11 is alternatively oriented between said louver groups;
And you can see that it is installed. The outwardly opening or facing V-shaped areas are designed as louvered areas 510, while the inwardly facing areas are designed as louvered areas 510. In the current pattern, five groups of juxtaposed louvers 509 are generally disposed between each louver group 507. This particular arrangement is provided for illustrative purposes only. Many types of patterns and arrangements of louvers 414 can be made in accordance with the principles of the present invention. This special pattern is plate 41
2 was found to provide a structurally sound louver pattern.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a view identical to the plate area of FIG. 10 is shown, illustrating in detail one pattern of vapor and liquid passage therethrough. As shown in FIG. 7, each of the various louvers is not separately numbered in this figure to facilitate description of the fluid flow pattern therein. Accordingly, the descending liquid 420 is shown to form split streams 601, 602 as it encounters the first mating louvers 490, 540, with the louvers 49
0 protrudes from the side surface 604. Split flow 602 is directed downward and outwardly under louvers 540, passing it to the outer surface of plate 412. Along the inner surface 604, the remaining liquid 601 can continue downward. In this pattern, it can continue down to the outer surface 608 of plate 412 as indicated by flow arrow 610 or flow through louvers 496 . The volume of fluid 610 directed through a louver, e.g.
It will depend on a number of parameters including 22 morphology. It can be seen that the size of the opening in the louver 490 is limited and once maximum flow is achieved therethrough, additional liquid will simply flow past the louver.

Still referring to FIG. 11, liquid stream 601
can continue downwardly along the inner surface 604 below the louvers 496 to exit through the louvers 505 as the flow 612 attaches. A wide variety of flow configurations are of course possible and these are presented for illustrative purposes only. The accumulation of fluid flow streams 602 , 610 can similarly continue downwardly along the outer surface 608 , or a portion thereof can be directed back through the louvers 504 as shown by flow arrows 616 . In that configuration, flow 616 will then flow downwardly along plate surface 604, accumulating the remaining flow 601 from above. At this point, the liquid that started as liquid stream 420 may have passed through the plate twice,
12 are exposed to rising vapor flow 422 on both sides. As mentioned above, the design of the louver through which the flow passes clearly depends on the observer's reference point. The liquid stream 616 actually flows through the louvers 50
It passes between 2,504. This is because the spacing therebetween is formed as a result of the combination of said louvers. References to flow through a single louver should be seen as references to flow through that louver and adjacent louvers forming flow holes therebetween.

Still referring to FIG. 11, descending liquid flow 420 is coupled to ascending vapor flow 422 along plate 412.
encounter. This upward steam flow is directed through plate 412 by downwardly extending louvers that provide exposed louver edges. The louvers are sized to provide sufficient surface area to engage and direct steam flow through plate 412. However, there may be a large amount of liquid passing through the special louver, which obstructs and/or prevents the upward flow of steam through it. For this reason, the rising steam 422 passing through certain louvres, e.g. louvres 502, 540, where liquid flow is already present.
is not shown. Arrow 621 directs the passage of steam through louvers 622, just as arrow 623 directs the passage of steam through louvers 624. Arrow 621 is shown disposed opposite arrow 601 and plate 412
Directs backflow of vapor and liquid along this area of the inner surface 604 of the. The pattern of louvers is provided to maximize the potential for vapor-liquid contact, so vertically adjacent louver groups 507, 509 are oriented oppositely as shown in FIG. Note that vapor is considered to be passed upwardly through one set of louvers, while liquid is passed downwardly through an adjacent set. The actual distribution of vapor and liquid through plate 512 may vary depending on the particular application, vapor pressure, liquid volume, and other operating parameters. An example of this modified interaction includes a descending liquid flow, as directed by arrow 690 in FIG. Occurs in Obviously, this counterflow of vapor and liquid through plate 412 will further enhance the intimate interaction between said vapor and liquid. The mixing area 695 on the side 604 of the plate 412 is therefore the area 69 on the side 608 of the plate 412.
6 will pass into intimate interaction between the rising vapor and the descending liquid. Such unique interactions between vapor and liquid do not always occur between adjacent pairs of louvers, but between adjacent louver groups 507, 509.
It can occur between The combinations are too numerous to detail and no particular combination other than those shown need be set out as preferred according to the current understanding of the invention.

Referring back to FIGS. 9 and 10, the louvers 414 are created in a predefined pattern in a selected direction. This pattern can of course be varied for particular applications, but in the present invention the pattern incorporates opposingly disposed groups of louvers 509. As shown here, this particular pattern 700 includes first and second laterally disposed louvers 414 and is fabricated with a density on the order of at least eight slot opening areas per square wave unit. The louvers 414 are group 5 as described above.
The lateral spacing provides structural integrity. The width of the louvers can be changed, but
In this embodiment, each louver has a width on the order of 45% of the width of flat area 411. Laterally aligned pairs of louvers lack this fold line 417 but terminate adjacent to the fold line 417.

Still referring to FIG. 9, louvers 710
, 711 are formed side by side, and the louvers 710, 71
1 is deflected upward and outward. Louver 713,7
14 are respectively arranged below the louvers 710 and 711,
Similarly formed outward and downward. At the same time, they form a generally V-shaped louvered area 511. It is seen that each louver 414 extends laterally within the flat region between the ridges and valleys of each corrugated plate 412, and that substantially all of the louvers terminate adjacent but not to the fold line. be able to. This lateral dimensional feature of each louver is specifically shown in FIG. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 4, the term upwardly and downwardly biased louver is used herein, although other nomenclature may be used.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-15, graphs of test results are shown indicative of the performance characteristics of structured packing 10 under various operational conditions. FIG. 12 describes the performance of a structured packing 10 assembled in a test column shown in FIG. 4 and schematically similar to that illustrated in FIG. 5, taken to measure its efficiency. do. Also,
In this graph, the performance of the cyclohexane/n-heptane-based structured packing 10 is charted over three column pressure ranges: 4.8 psia, 24 psia, and 60 psia. Performance appears along the ordinate of the chart
It is reflected in TP inches. The abscissa of the diagram refers to the "F" factor, which is a common parameter in tower design. The "F" factor is the product of the surface vapor velocity (Vs) across the column cross-section and the square root of the vapor density (Dv) and can be expressed by the following equation: F=Vs√(Dv) As shown by the diagram in FIG. 12, the packing efficiency decreases with increasing pressure from 4.8 psia to 24 psia (lower HETP). This graph shows that the pressure increase is so efficiently regulated by the louver configuration described above that the performance characteristics are substantially improved.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a graph is shown comparing the structured packing 10 of FIG. 4 to another structured packing using the same apparatus described above. Comparison shows that structured packing is described in US Pat. No. 4,604,247 (hereinafter "
H.247 Packing) is described and shown. The relative performance of these packings is again charted with the HETP appearing along the ordinate and the F factor along the abscissa. As seen in FIG. 13, the packing 10 of FIG. 4 has improved performance compared to the '247 packing. This performance curve is generated at a relatively low column pressure of 4.83 psia.

Referring now to FIG. 14, there is shown the same diagram as FIG. 13, the same structured packing and a comparison of the devices within it. In this figure, the packing mentioned above is 24
Measured at tower pressure in psia. The tower packing of the present invention has better performance than the '247 packing. At this higher pressure, large louvers specifically made to vent steam through plate 412 can contribute to improved performance. It is believed that the large louver dimensions and their structural configuration improve steam passage and uniformity of steam flow.

Referring now to FIG. 15, there is shown a charted performance of the above-described packing at a column pressure of 60 psia. The packing of Figure 4 again shows better performance than the '247 packing. The increased efficiency is also believed to be partially attributable to the larger louvers, which facilitate equalization of steam pressure and equalization of steam flow around the plate 12 in the configuration shown here.

Referring now to FIGS. 16-19, graphs of test results are shown illustrating the performance characteristics of the structured packing 410 of FIG. 9 at various operating conditions. FIG. 16 describes the performance and measures of efficiency of a structured packing 410 assembled in a test column schematically similar to that illustrated in FIG. Also, in this graph, structured packing 41 in the cyclohexane/n-heptane system
0 performance over three column pressure ranges, i.e. 48 psia;
Charted at 24 psia and 60 psia. Performance is also reflected in HETP inches that appear along the ordinate of the chart. The abscissa of the diagram shows the "F" factor, which is a common parameter in tower design. The "F" factor is the product of the surface vapor velocity (Vs) across the column cross-section and the square root of the vapor density and can be expressed by the following equation: F=Vs√(Dv) As shown by the diagram in FIG. 16, packing efficiency decreases with increasing pressure from 4.8 psia to 24 psia (higher HETP). However, the graph is 24
The pressure increase from psia to 60 psia is effectively accommodated by the louver configuration described above, and the performance characteristics are in fact 4.
Improved HETP levels in the 8 psia range.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a graph comparing the structured packing of FIG. 9 and the '247 packing described above is shown. The relative performance of these packings is again
It is charted with HETP appearing along the ordinate and F factor along the abscissa. As seen in FIG. 17, the packing 410 of FIG. 19 has improved functionality compared to the '247 packing. This performance curve is 4.83 psia
It is produced at a relatively low column pressure.

Referring now to FIG. 18, the same diagram as FIG. 17 and a comparison of the same structured packing and devices within it is shown. In this figure, the packing described above is 2
Measured at a column pressure of 4 psia. The column packing 410 of the present invention has a better performance curve than the '247 packing with an F factor of about 1.5 or greater. It is believed that the presence of the louvers and their structural features improve steam passage and equalization of steam flow at higher F-factor values. Referring now to FIG. 19, the charted performance of the above packing is shown at a column pressure of 60 psia. Also, the packing 410 of the present invention exhibits better performance than the '247 packing with an F factor of about 1.5 or greater.

Referring now to FIG. 20, a perspective view of another embodiment of the corrugated plate 12 of FIG. 4 is shown. Plate 12 includes a plurality of louvers 13, 14 that define a series of directional flow openings therethrough. however,
The large louvers 13 are stacked vertically between the corrugated flat regions 11, so that no two adjacent large louvers 13 are laterally aligned from one to the other. Accordingly, the corrugated flat regions 401, 403 are shown with the louvers 13, 14 aligned laterally from one to the other. An intermediate corrugated flat region 405 is created with louvers 13, 14 vertically offset from the lateral louvers aligned between sections 401, 403, such that large louvers 13 are offset from large louvers 13 in adjacent sections.
It is located approximately in the middle between the two. This staggered arrangement of louvers is particularly important at the manufacturing stage.
4 is shown to provide a structurally stronger plate 412 when newly fabricated from a flat metal sheet forming plate 412. Because of the above structural considerations, operationally this embodiment can be implemented in substantially the same manner as other embodiments described herein, and now this form can provide certain structural advantages. it is conceivable that.

In operation, the flow of liquid downwardly across rate 12,412 is effectively improved over many prior art plate designs. Unlike a smooth plate, liquid is not given the opportunity to accumulate in the troughs 17 (seen most clearly in Figure 4) due to the louver spacing. As seen in the drawings, the edges of the louvers are disposed along the boundaries of the trough, so that any fluid accumulation inside is efficiently diverted by the presence of the louvers. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the louvers are then made of pairs of smaller louvers in oppositely oriented configurations, which configurations are disposed adjacent to each larger louver. As shown here, the defined pattern incorporates first and second pairs of small louvers between each pair of large louvers. Similarly, each pair of smaller louvers includes a divided louver area. Due to the size of the small louvers, they are formed in segments relative to the large louvers, where the length of each small louver is approximately half the length of each large louver. This construction provides the necessary structural rigidity for the tower packing. Also,
Each small louver is oppositely oriented with respect to its adjacent large louver. Above, the large inwardly directed louvers are therefore arranged above the pair, above the outwardly arranged smaller louvers, which are themselves each arranged in pairs below the large louvers. It will be done. This pattern of eight small louvers disposed between each set of large louvers is only one embodiment for the present invention. Small louvres can be made in varying arrays. However, the configuration shown here is itself symmetrically adapted during manufacture, and that symmetry can contribute to the efficiency of the performance data described here.

Accordingly, it is believed that the operation and construction of the present invention will be apparent from the foregoing description. While the method and apparatus shown and described are preferably characterized, it is understood that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims. It's self-evident.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a corrugated plate adapted for vapor-liquid contact and having large and small louvers formed therein in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

2 is a perspective view of the plurality of corrugated plates of FIG. 1 in an assembled configuration; FIG.

3 is an enlarged top view of the assembled vapor-liquid contact plate of FIG. 2; FIG.

4 is a fragmentary, enlarged perspective view of the corrugated plate of FIG. 1 illustrating the large and small louvers formed therein; FIG.

FIG. 5 is a side elevational cross-sectional view of a process column having multiple layers of assembled plates illustrated in FIG. 2 stacked therein and incorporating one embodiment of the method and apparatus of the present invention.

6 is a top cross-sectional view of the process column taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5; FIG.

7 is an enlarged side elevation cross-sectional view of the corrugated plate taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4; FIG.

8 is an enlarged side elevational cross-sectional view of the corrugated plate taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 4 and illustrating fluid flow therebetween; FIG.

9 is a fragmentary, enlarged perspective view of another embodiment of the corrugated plate of FIG. 1 illustrating louvers formed therein; FIG.

10 is an enlarged side elevational cross-sectional view of the corrugated plate taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9; FIG.

11 is an enlarged side elevation cross-sectional view of the corrugated plate taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9 and illustrating fluid flowing therethrough; FIG.

FIG. 12 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 4 for various column pressures.

FIG. 13 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 4 relative to other structured packings at selected column pressures.

FIG. 14 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 4 relative to other structured packings at a second column pressure.

FIG. 15 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 4 relative to other structured packings at a third column pressure.

FIG. 16 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 9 for various column pressures.

FIG. 17 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 9 relative to other structured packings at selected column pressures.

FIG. 18 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 9 relative to other structured packings at a second column pressure.

FIG. 19 is a graph charting the performance of the packing of FIG. 9 relative to other structured packings at a third column pressure.

20 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the corrugated plate of FIG. 4; FIG.

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. A plurality of vertically oriented corrugated sheets in face-to-face contact with opposing corrugations tilted opposite each other, each of the sheets having ridges therein separated by flat areas. troughs, the ridges, troughs and flat areas defining the corrugated form of the sheet, each flat area having a plurality of laterally extending louvers thereon. wherein some of the louvers have upwardly facing edges and some of the louvers have downwardly facing edges, and substantially all of the louvers are shorter than the fold line but adjacent to the fold line. 1. A column packing for contacting a vapor stream with a liquid stream, characterized in that the column terminates with a vapor stream contacting a liquid stream.